Playing bass might seem a thankless job in jazz, working away at the back of the stage while the frontmen get all the accolades, but Portland bassist Phil Baker sees it as an art.

"Walking a bass line is constant improvising. Grooving with a drummer is very rewarding. You stand out by being the perfect canvas for others to paint on," Baker said by email while on tour with Pink Martini in Europe.

Baker is getting the accolades he greatly deserves, earning induction to the Jazz Society of Oregon's Hall of Fame on Saturday.

"To be included with so many great musicians is humbling and a great honor," Baker said.

Baker is the fourth bassist inducted after Leroy Vinnegar, Glen Moore, and Dan Presley with Tall Jazz. Baker may be the most versatile, playing in numerous settings, from his Motown days with Diana Ross to small jazz combos, big bands and Pink Martini. But it's jazz that he holds close to his heart.

"When (jazz) is truly happening, it's like the players have ESP, and that is very fulfilling," he said.

Baker has made many Northwest musicians sound incredible over the years, and he also composes his own tunes, which makes him a consummate musician, not just a bassist.

"We're looking for somebody who is an outstanding local musician, well-known outside the area, an evangelist for jazz, an educator, and someone who is moving jazz forward. Phil embodies all those," said JSO President Bill Powers.

Baker has played big gigs all over the globe, including one with Ross at Giants Stadium with Miles Davis opening, but he counts "any gig with Ron Steen" as another career highlight. Baker will play two sets at his induction with a trio that includes Steen and pianist Greg Goebel, a fitting setting for the new Hall of Famer.

6:30 p.m. Saturday at Jimmy Mak's, 221 N.W. 10th Ave.; www.jimmymaks.com. Tickets $17 in advance for reserved seats, 503-295-6542; $15 general admission through www.ticketsoregon.com or 503-432-9477. A portion of the ticket sales will benefit the Jazz Society of Oregon.